by "Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
Published 10/26/2017 at 07:27
by "Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
Published 10/26/2017 at 07:27
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STARS: 3
!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!
With the last debacle in my rear view mirror, I am looking into some further options to get myself into a Saab 9-2x Aero. Since I am already flying into San Francisco on Friday and now renting a mini van from Alamo one way to LA, I have some time to kick tires and look at cars. Unfortunately I have turned to Craigslist for this adventure but at least I found something that may be of value.
The highlights on this one include that it has 130k miles, Timing belt + water pump + head gaskets were done at 98k miles (along with the brakes, so all of the maintenance required on the other one), and it appears to be a clean and well running car. No rust reported, but who knows what could come up in an inspection with this being an East Coast car originally. Its also silver and I HATE silver and its an ‘05 so 2.0L. But overall, its something worth checking out. So I am coordinating with the seller to look on Friday.
Probably the only real concern I have are the mods and passing smog certification. This one is reported to be tuned with a “Cobb EBCS 3-port”, Cobb stage 2 with turbo back exhaust, lightweight crank pulley, and a Cobb cold air box. If I can get the seller to make it pass Smog, I would be happy with the mods if done properly.
Either way, I at least want to test drive it whether or not I actually want to buy it. The purchase stage is now being held off no matter what until I move into LA after the drive across. Its at least a good idea to check out a Saabaru and see if its really for me.
"random001" (random001)
10/26/2017 at 07:43, STARS: 0
Corvette. I keep telling you...
"Stapleface" (patrickgruden)
10/26/2017 at 07:52, STARS: 2
As you said, you’re just checking things out right now, no absolute NEED to buy. I say take your time to find what you really want.
I was doing a bit more searching on your CL, and found a few more.
Not serious about this, but boy does it look ridiculous.
https://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/cto/d/1994-geo-metro-xfi/6317119486.html
Could be a good commuter car for you
https://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/cto/d/acura-tl-2004-single-owner/6354704226.html
MazdaSpeed 3
https://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/cto/d/2007-mazdaspeed-3/6333122392.html
MazdaSpeed 6
https://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/cto/d/mazdaspeed6-for-sale/6330441768.html
Another Acura
https://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/cto/d/acura-tsxspeed-manual/6351585209.html
"Dusty Ventures" (dustyventures)
10/26/2017 at 07:58, STARS: 3
Not sure if you saw my comment about it on an older post or if it got buried, but you might want to also check out a Legacy GT wagon/Outback XT. Same turbo 2.5 as the WRX but with more fancy on the inside and this beast of a sunroof
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 08:06, STARS: 2
You know its hiliarious I did actually look at the Geo already for a minute lol. I considered posting it in the original post to spur more ideas like it. It is truly crazy looking, but then again its a geo metro.
I would be HIGHLY interested in a TL if it were a Type S. Those things are INCREDIBLY rare but are actually something I would want. I have a friend who totaled one and it was really nice ride before that.
Mazdaspeed3 is actually what I wanted before I started looking for a Saabaru. I have heard just as many problems about those but also I have always loved those. I wanted one before I bought my Miata even. That was the number one car I wanted for a long time. So maybe I will look harder for one now that I am seriously shopping. Its just hard to find an unmolested one. Case in point - this one lol (clearly slammed but they didnt even list springs as a mod)
Speed6 is a boat and ive never really heard anything but problems about them. And odd car for sure. I think it would be a project though with that one.
"pip bip - choose Corrour" (hhgttg69)
10/26/2017 at 08:08, STARS: 1
nothing wrong with silver.
as for black though.................
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 08:11, STARS: 1
Actually, thanks for reminding me about the Legacy GT. I dont really like those in wagon form but a LGT sedan (especially a spec B - out of my price range though I bet) would be awesome to find. But yeah good point, I already have the Miata for pure fun, maybe I should consider other Subarus like that. I dont need a car THAT practical though, I have gotten by just fine with the Miata. The impreza size vehicle is already overkill for me.
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 08:18, STARS: 1
In general I agree, I dont like Silver, white, or black. They just arent colors lol. I could care less what color it is beyond that. It could be blue, green, purple, brown - i dont care just any color. But I think I will have to give up on that need if I ever want to find a car I want. I have to just ignore colors and accept it.
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 08:20, STARS: 0
Do they make snow tires in 305s? Lol
"TheTurbochargedSquirrel" (thatsquirrel)
10/26/2017 at 08:21, STARS: 1
From my admittedly limited experience driving WRXs I prefer the 2.0 over the 2.5. The 2.0 just revs a little bit better and I feel like the turbo kicks in just a little bit harder than on the 2.5. Both good engines, the 2.0 is just a bit more playful in my experience.
"sm70- why not Duesenberg?" (sm70-whynotduesenberg)
10/26/2017 at 08:24, STARS: 1
Oooh, roof rails.
"random001" (random001)
10/26/2017 at 08:27, STARS: 0
Maybe, but either way you can get snow tires on a ‘Vette!
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 08:36, STARS: 0
Haha sold! Idk if I could be a Corvette guy. For the same reasons I dont want to just get an actual WRX. Sure I could ignore the culture but man would it bother me. I think in general it wouldnt be a good car to go along with my Miata. And since id really want like a Z06, Idk if I could fit it in my budget.
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 08:37, STARS: 0
Hmm really? Thats interesting, I think I should really try to drive both then. Its near impossible to find a stock one to try though lol.
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 08:38, STARS: 2
Yup, apparently its not that hard to install them since it already is drilled for it from the factory. I know that was one of the first mods I planned on doing no matter what. Along with an exhaust and some sway bars. Since this has gone down that route already, its interesting to me.
"random001" (random001)
10/26/2017 at 08:59, STARS: 2
I had Corvettes for about 12 years. Yeah, there’s a stigma there if you look for it, but honestly, most people just roll with it. Best car I’ve ever owned was my 02 Z06. I miss her...
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 09:18, STARS: 0
Spot on what I would want! But I believe those are in the $15k range generally. Id like to own one someday though.
"BeaterGT" (beatergt)
10/26/2017 at 09:50, STARS: 1
That’s what I drive! And agreed, the stigma really isn’t that bad. It’s actually worse on Jalopnik than anything I have experienced in real life. Everything on the road wanting to race you is pretty funny though.
"BeaterGT" (beatergt)
10/26/2017 at 09:51, STARS: 2
Can’t recommend it enough, picked my Z up in April for under 15.
"random001" (random001)
10/26/2017 at 09:51, STARS: 1
You do not need to worry about high mileage on these, either. Rock damned solid.
"random001" (random001)
10/26/2017 at 09:54, STARS: 0
Yeah. Just don’t give them the satisfaction, usually. Man...I so miss that car.
"Neil drives a beetle and a fancy beetle" (1500sand535)
10/26/2017 at 10:00, STARS: 1
9-3 wagon? This one is a little newer and more expensive than what you’ve looked at but I bet they’ll come down or I bet you could find an older lower priced one. I bet it’s lived an easier life than most saabarus and I think the GM engines are pretty durable
https://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/ctd/d/2010-saab-9-3-sportcombi-4dr/6359306044.html
"gettingoldercarguy" (gettingoldercarguy)
10/26/2017 at 10:05, STARS: 1
Lightweight pulley is bad for bearings.
"HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles" (hondasfordsvolvo)
10/26/2017 at 10:06, STARS: 1
That’s what the Subaru guys say. The 2.5 has a longer struck so slower revs, and lower redline. The 2.0 is closer to the engine Suabaru developed for their rally cars since that was the displacement limit. The 2.5l was developed to meet US emissions regulations.
"HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles" (hondasfordsvolvo)
10/26/2017 at 10:08, STARS: 0
You could also look for the unicorn manual Turbo Baja!
"awmaster10" (awmaster10)
10/26/2017 at 10:09, STARS: 0
I know the type s is appealing but the manual trans TLs got brembos and an lsd standard and the j35 is barely more powerful than the j32. 04-05 base with the 6 speed would be a great commuter
"HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles" (hondasfordsvolvo)
10/26/2017 at 10:10, STARS: 2
That Geo is awesome, but it looks more like a 1200 dollar car to me.
"HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles" (hondasfordsvolvo)
10/26/2017 at 10:12, STARS: 0
Man I love the facelifted 9-3 sportcombi such a good looking car. A 9-3 Turbo X Sportcombi is one of my like top ten dream cars,
"BeaterGT" (beatergt)
10/26/2017 at 10:22, STARS: 0
Have you driven a C7? I’m thinking about upgrading next year but don’t want to end up missing the C5Z!
"random001" (random001)
10/26/2017 at 10:32, STARS: 1
I have. There’s no comparison. As much as I loved the C5Z, the C7 base will walk all over it in every way. The new LT1 is a dream of a motor, the 7 speed trans is butter smooth, and it’s just better. I mean, it’s a 20 year newer design, obviously, but it’s so. much. better. I would never recommend a C6 over a C5, but a C7 is a whole different ball game.
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 10:33, STARS: 1
Certainly worth test driving one I guess! My only concern is that if a car isnt special enough, I will end up just driving the Miata all the time anyways. Especially with the weather in LA lol. Nice AC, a little more space, and something to easily take to a ski mountain are my needs. But I know that if I made it this long in NJ in a Miata, its gotta be easier there. Might as well get a second miata!
But yeah good suggestion, I will check one out.
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 10:35, STARS: 0
I drove a C7, it was ludicrously fast lol. I just wanted to “test it out” on an onramp and figured how high could just third gear really get? Going 110 before I am even on the highway I was just like holy shit this thing is gonna get me arrested! My miata struggles to do that speed in 5th gear
"BeaterGT" (beatergt)
10/26/2017 at 10:37, STARS: 0
Pretty much what I was thinking, thanks! Decisions, decisions...
"BeaterGT" (beatergt)
10/26/2017 at 10:38, STARS: 1
Third gear in a Corvette is pure bliss lol. Sorry for hijacking your post!
"random001" (random001)
10/26/2017 at 10:38, STARS: 1
But, you know, keep me informed about that C5Z there...
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 10:38, STARS: 0
See I am not particular about Saab or a wagon for that matter really. I do really love the WRX platform and Im willing to pay to play, but I just want one that isnt beat to shit somehow.
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 10:41, STARS: 0
Yeah that was the item that worried me the most. And I wondered how easy/difficult it would be to return that to stock. I still dont think this car will pass smog without a lot of trouble. One of my main reasons for buying a car is to have something that is easily smogged, unlike my Miata!
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 10:43, STARS: 0
Its all good, I like learning more about cars I hadnt really thought about but would probably enjoy a lot. I feel like Miata and Corvette is different enough that I could actually do that. Highly impractical but super fun. Its not like I have children to move around anyways.
I’d have just as much ground clearance and traction issues in snow though as my Miata. I really dont want to have to get a rental every time I want to ski locally. And snow up in those mountains is a lot more serious than Im used to here. But I also really do not want a truck.
"BeaterGT" (beatergt)
10/26/2017 at 10:51, STARS: 1
I don’t plan on driving my Z in the snow either, it does seem near impossible without ALL the right winter gear.
You’re thinking much along the lines of myself since my other car is a Legacy GT and handles the winter/bad-weather duties. I suggest you budget for repairs if you are planning on getting a turbo Subaru.
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 11:03, STARS: 0
Oh of course, my goal is to have a car for $10k including repairs. Thats why I was hoping for something in the $7-8k range that would require minimal work that I could do myself. Thats why the Saabaru for $8600 that needed nothing was perfect. Seeing as the seller didnt disclose crap he could have figured out ahead of time, it just didnt work out.
Im sure I can find another eventually.
"BeaterGT" (beatergt)
10/26/2017 at 11:04, STARS: 0
Good on you for turning it down. Good luck in your search, I’ll be following haha.
"Schaef_Camaero Z/28" (schaefz28)
10/26/2017 at 11:20, STARS: 1
Despite the mechanical issues, the black one is a MUCH nicer looking/better optioned car. This one has twice the miles, does not have HIDs, the cold weather package, leather, or a sunroof. I would be very leery of the rear strut towers in this one, coming from MA. I would much rather spend a couple grand repairing the black one than buy this one for just a bit cheaper. FWIW 3-4k for a headgasket job sounds astronomical.. I would have expected about half that. Maybe get some other quotes from different Subie shops / dealers near your new location? Yes, it would be a good idea to replace the clutch while it’s apart, but might not be necessary. It could be inspected and replaced if needed. I have almost 130k on my stock clutch. The brake parts sound kind of expensive too, you should be able to do a full brake job for 300-400. Not that I’m trying to talk you back into the black one, it makes no difference to me... but given these 2 options that’s where my money would go.
This is what my car looked like the week after I bought it ($7500 1.5 years ago). It lived in Indiana & Wisconsin. There was a spot in the wheel well that I was skeptical of but I took the chance on it anyway. After I got home with the car, I found out about the rust issue with these.. So I pulled the interior apart and this is what was left after poking around with a screwdriver. I don’t want you to have to experience this feeling too.
Currently:
"TheTurbochargedSquirrel" (thatsquirrel)
10/26/2017 at 12:29, STARS: 0
It’s not a huge difference and both have the same general character. The shorter bore and stroke of the 2.0 means that it just revs a little bit higher (7k vs 6.5k) and gains revs just a tiny bit faster.
"TheD0k_2many toys 2little time" (thed0ck)
10/26/2017 at 12:33, STARS: 0
ringlands and headgaskets....
they do look better than WRX’s tho
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 13:30, STARS: 0
I certainly believe that I could repair it for 2-3k total. But based on ALL of the items and the fact that he wont come down at all, it makes me leary of something over $7500. Thats why im still happy to buy it at that price. I could easily end up being stuck with $4k in repairs within the first couple of months. That drops me somewhere around $11k which is a good price for a mint one without issues. But 12-13k for that? Nah I just dont want to do it at that point.
"gettingoldercarguy" (gettingoldercarguy)
10/26/2017 at 15:36, STARS: 0
The pulley is easy to do, I’d replace it with a fluidampr. The turboback is a pita tho for your smog. I thought it was possible to have your car tested for an individual waiver there.
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 15:38, STARS: 0
I mean idk, i hadnt really looked into it. All I know is that exhaust pretty much has to be stock or explicitly state it is CARB legal. I will run into the same problem with my Miata with aftermarket header and 49 state Cat.
"awmaster10" (awmaster10)
10/26/2017 at 16:01, STARS: 1
Yeah it certainly won’t be like a Miata on the real twisties but maybe you’ll grow to appreciate the comfort and practicality and I think with the great shifter and engine it’ll maybe be interesting to keep you away from the Miata on longer drives
"Neil drives a beetle and a fancy beetle" (1500sand535)
10/26/2017 at 16:21, STARS: 1
I think in general WRXs are one of the most pre-hooned, pre modded used cars. And the secret is more or less out on the 9-2X. Every once in a while I see one that makes me say “damn, it’s actually well kept and priced reasonably” but it’s rare.
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 16:22, STARS: 1
Yup, as long as its different yet still engaging and entertaining in its own way, it will get its use. I am planning to look at an RSX as well tomorrow. So that will get me that Honda feel but is obviously a bit more raw. I always just like how solid Hondas are and they are obviously more reliable in general than a Subaru!
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 16:28, STARS: 0
BUT ITS SO RARE MAN. THIS CAR IS RARE. ALL OF THE INTEREST. THE PROBLEMS ARE MINOR!
Im still mad this guy said a headgasket leak can be a minor issue. I wanted to tell this guy to FUCK OFF when he said $8k. But I still kinda want the car even if the owner is a retard.
"Schaef_Camaero Z/28" (schaefz28)
10/26/2017 at 16:43, STARS: 1
Right, I’m not saying to go buy the black one, but surely if you wait it out you’ll be able to find one nicer than the silver one above.
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 16:48, STARS: 0
Agreed! I know they must be out there. But I’d like to have a car before the end of November. So I am more likely to just find something entirely different. I will be patient though and find that clean california car with no problems that I am looking for. Im not too picky about what car it is so I shouldnt have too much trouble.
"gettingoldercarguy" (gettingoldercarguy)
10/26/2017 at 18:10, STARS: 0
He obviously knows something about cars and is showing contempt for you by lying about the severity of the repair. Who knows what else is wrong with the car because he sure as shit isn’t going to tell you. Walk away.
"gettingoldercarguy" (gettingoldercarguy)
10/26/2017 at 18:14, STARS: 1
The above was in reference to the black one.
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/26/2017 at 18:29, STARS: 0
Oh yeah I know lol
"Neil drives a beetle and a fancy beetle" (1500sand535)
10/26/2017 at 21:08, STARS: 1
Don’t get me wrong, saabarus are sweet, and WRXs might be worth it despite the risk, but it’s just the territory.
"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678)
10/27/2017 at 06:34, STARS: 0
Well yeah, its why im at least test driving the thing today. Gotta find out if I am crazy enough to actually want a basket case for a daily driver. I’ve got a dependable Miata that I am happy to drive top down to work every day if need be so having a car that breaks every once in a while isnt so bad as long as its fun when it works.